Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

A popular spot for visitors to get a view of the valley and mountain ranges
Whiskeytown Lake’s crystal-clear waters are iconic, but this 42,000-acre National Recreation Area offers much more. Explore waterfalls, hike rugged trails, uncover Gold Rush history, and witness the resilience of nature in its post-fire recovery. Adventure awaits at every turn—Whiskeytown is calling!
Map showing location of park.
National Park Service to Authorize Nearly 80 Miles of Trails for Bicycles at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area in northern California will soon be authorized to designate nearly 80 miles of trails for bicycle and e-bike use under a new National Park Service rule that expands responsible recreation access.
Blue-gray waters of lake with green shrub in foreground, mountains and clouds in background.
Photo by NPS Photo.
A woman looking at a cascade.
Photo by Choose Redding.
White houses and white outbuildings.
Photo by NPS Photo.
Two kayakers paddling on Whiskeytown Lake. Clouds above.
Photo by NPS Photo.
Orange flowers with small black circles along a creek.
Photo by NPS Photo.
Several people swimming in water, strip of sand with people sitting on it, trees, blue sky above.
Photo by NPS Photo.
Park ranger with flat hat holding a small commemorative jug
Photo by NPS Photo.
Close-up photo of black bear in front of green shrubs.
Photo by NPS Photo